Nail Fungus Specialist

Park East Podiatry

Neil S. Zwiebel, DPM

Podiatrist located in Midtown, New York, NY

Brittle, crumbling, discolored toenails may be a sign of a nail fungus infection. Dr. Neil Zwiebel, dedicated podiatrist at Park East Podiatry in New York, New York, helps you manage fungal infections with state-of-the-art therapies and lasers. If you live or work in the New York City area and think you might have a nail fungus infection, call the helpful Park East Podiatry team or book a consultation with Dr. Zwiebel online.

Nail Fungus Q&A

What is nail fungus?

Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is an infection in a fingernail or toenail caused by fungi such as dermatophytes, yeast, or mold. It usually starts as a white or yellow area at the tip of your nail that may go on to affect the entire nail, making it look thick, discolored, and crumbly. The fungus may also deform your nail or create a foul odor.

How’d I get a toenail fungus?

If you had athlete’s foot, it may have spread to your toenails. Conversely, if you have a toenail fungus, it can spread to the skin between your toes and develop into athlete’s foot.

You’re at increased risk for toenail fungus if you:

Sweat heavily

Have a history of athlete’s foot

Are older, with slower growing nails

Walk barefoot in warm, moist areas such as gyms, showers, and pools

Have a weakened immune system or other conditions, such as diabetes

Have a small nail or skin injury

Have a skin condition, such as psoriasis

Is toenail fungus serious?

Mild cases of toenail fungus may resolve on their own without treatment. However, if your fungus bothers you or if your toenail condition worsens, you should consult Dr. Zwiebel.

If you have diabetes or other chronic conditions, a simple nail fungus can lead to a serious bacterial skin infection called cellulitis. Call Dr. Zwiebel immediately if you have diabetes or a suppressed immune system and notice the symptoms of toenail fungus.

How can I get rid of toenail fungus?

Toenail fungus is difficult to eradicate. Depending on how severe your case is, Dr. Zwiebel may use a combination of therapies to kill the fungus, including:

Oral therapies with antifungal agents, such as terbinafine and itraconazole, on a pulsed schedule